But I will sing of your strength, in the morning I will sing of your love; for you are my fortress, my refuge in times of trouble. (Psalm 59:16)

"Sure, Mom, but I'm a little low on gas," responds my college-age son, Jeff, when I request a ride.

We reach his car and as he slams the squeaky door, he warns me, "Keep your feet back, Mom. There are wires hanging from the dashboard."

A faint huff slips from my mouth. And as I sink in my seat, with one hand I lift the roof lining that rests on the top of my head.

"Sorry Mom, I need to glue that back up."

A loud pop startles me. "What was that?"

"A loose wire in the radio. Got to slam it to work."

Jeff's car, with each turn of its bald tires, begs to be laid to rest at the nearest salvage yard. But Jeff's appearance? Gracious, what a contrast! Neatly shaven, clean haircut and dressed with stylish designer clothes.

Strange, but my son's car and his personal grooming mirrors my life. I encountered devastating malfunctions while moving down the road of life. Adversity had rusted my soul, dented my confidence, and scratched my sense of purpose. Worn out, I too was a candidate for the emotional junk yard.

But when it all threatened to crumble, like Jeff, I kept one area of my life well-guarded and cared for – my faith in Christ. And with each trial I encountered, my well-polished trust in Him saved me from despair and defeat.

When I lost my sight, fear of living in darkness nearly devastated me, but God promised to be... a lamp unto my feet and a light unto my path (Psalm 119:105).

My husband's sudden unemployment threatened to drown us in financial ruin. But God's reminder lifted me to safety. When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and when you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over you. (Isaiah 43:2a).

And when the flames of sorrow scorched my heart after losing Jeff's 19-year-old brother to a senseless murder, God refreshed my soul. When you walk through the fire, you will not be burned; the flames will not set you ablaze. (Isaiah 43:2b).

Whenever painful circumstances threaten to drive me toward the emotional salvage yard, my faith and trust in God's Word craft an overhaul of my soul. It includes a warranty offered by God, the Master Mechanic... coverage for any future malfunctions of life. In large print, the guarantee reads: NO EXPIRATION — PAID IN FULL BY MY SON, JESUS.

Heavenly Father, thank You for renewing my soul with the power of your promises and the comfort of Your Word. May I be a vessel to carry your faithfulness, and a testimony of your grace.